12/12/2025
Smoking materials are a leading cause of house fires.
As we enter the colder months and more people stay indoors, the risk of fires caused by smoking and smoking materials increases significantly.
WSFD is asking our community to take a moment to review these important safety reminders to help keep everyone safe this winter season.
Key Facts -
• Smoking materials (ci******es, ci**rs, pipes, lighters, matches) remain one of the leading causes of home fire deaths in the United States.
• Most of these fires start when someone falls asleep or improperly disposes of smoking materials.
• Fires involving smoking materials can spread fast and produce extremely toxic smoke.
SAFETY TIPS FOR SMOKING HOUSEHOLDS -
• Smoke Outside: Never smoke in bed, on a couch, or in a recliner where you can fall asleep.
• Use a Sturdy Ashtray: Heavy, deep ashtrays with a stable base prevent tipping.
• Fully Extinguish Ci******es: Douse cigarette butts and ashes in water or sand, not just the trash bin.
• Keep Smoking Materials Away From Oxygen: Never smoke when using medical oxygen—it can cause fires to ignite explosively.
• Protect Against Wind: If smoking outdoors, use a proper container. Wind can blow still-hot materials into dry landscaping or porches.
• Never Smoke Around Kids or Pets: They may accidentally knock something over or access matches and lighters.
HOME SAFETY REMINDERS -
• Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home and inside every bedroom.
• Test alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.
• Keep a fire extinguisher accessible, and make sure everyone in the home knows how to use it.
• Have a home escape plan and practice it with your family.
Most smoking-related fires are preventable.
Please share this message and help us reduce the risk of smoking-related fires this winter.
Stay safe,
WSFD
